After wishing her a good evening, Cor watched her leave the building from his office window. He couldn't help but admit that her presence had made the day better and easier. He had gone into this idea feeling more than uncertain and even suspicious of having someone else help him with his work. He had expected the interviews to be amusing at best, and the first two were just that. The girls were ridiculous and flirty, and one even hinted at wanting to "discuss her strengths further, later that evening." He huffed and shook his head as he remembered. Evie, however, left a very different impression. She was genuine, qualified, and honest; enough so to make him give this whole assistant idea a chance.

Walking back to his seat, he heard a knock at the door. He told whoever it was to come in and Clarus walked toward his desk.

"So?" he asked, seemingly excited. Cor gave him a questioning look.

"So, what?"

"How did her first day go? Did you two get on well?" Cor leaned back in his chair and sighed. He should have known Clarus would come by for news and possibly a 'you were right' admission from him.

"It was good," he replied ambiguously. Clarus folded his arms and continued to stare at his younger friend.

"That is all you have to say?" He asked, disappointed at the obvious lack of details. "I heard you quite enjoyed yourself, even took her to lunch."

Cor raised an eyebrow at the man. So what if he took the girl to lunch, they needed to discuss the details of her job. Sure, he had enjoyed her company, but wasn't that expected? They were going to be around each other a lot.

"We went to lunch to talk about job details, Clarus, nothing more," he explained. Clarus continued staring at him, much to his discomfort.

"I see. Still, she seems to suit the job as your assistant well," he acknowledged, "And she seems to have made a very good impression on many others in the Citadel. Ignis and Titus seemed to enjoy her presence and company."

"I'm glad," Cor pretended to busy himself with some papers in front of him. He wasn't sure why, but he suddenly felt slightly bothered. "And you are right, she has so far been very helpful."

Clarus seemed content with this news and nodded at him before leaving.

Cor still felt annoyed later that evening. He had just entered his quarters and was trying to decide what he should make himself for dinner, but could not put this feeling out of his mind. Of course others in and around the Citadel would enjoy her being around. She was seemingly kind, young, hard working, funny, and attractive. Was this jealousy? It couldn't be. He just met the girl and she was simply his assistant. Maybe that was part of it. Others wanted to spend time with his assistant. Other men. Was he simply feeling protective over her? He shook the thoughts away and decided to cook something to clear his mind. He didn't have any other work to do, since she had taken care of all of that. It felt nice not having to bring work home, but his thoughts were now free to roam. And she was currently taking up a lot of room in those thoughts.

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Evie collapsed in her arm chair, feeling tired but proud of herself. She had gotten through her first day just fine, and she and the Marshal seemed to get along well. That was a relief. He had seemed so stern and unwelcoming during that interview, that she was not sure what else to expect. She had also met a few other people throughout the day that seemed friendly. She sighed in contentment at her current situation then decided to reward herself with a bubble bath before heading to bed early so she would have the energy to do more tomorrow.

The next several weeks went by quickly. Evie had mastered the few smaller responsibilities given to her and was learning more. She now met Cor in the training rooms to help him take notes about different recruits including their strengths and weaknesses, where to focus training, and how they seemed mentally. She met more guards and officers, and got to see more of Gladio and Ignis. She also met Prince Noctis and his friend Prompto, often walking with them across the grounds after having run into them on an errand. The prince was a bit quiet, but nice, while Prompto was more loud and excitable. Everyone she met seemed very friendly. Some of the guards acted a bit too friendly at times, including Gladio, but she would just smile or laugh off their flirty behavior.

She also ran errands and had been sent out to get lunch while Cor worked on assignments and orders. She had hoped he would have time again to just go to lunch with her so they could spend some time talking about more than work, but she realized that this was a silly, hopefully passing, fancy of hers. She did notice though that every time they were around or meeting with certain people, he would make sure to be closer to her or even touch her in some innocent way. During their Wednesday meeting with the Captain for instance, he made sure to place his hand lightly on her back or shoulder as if leading her when they arrived and left. When they met Ignis in the hall on the way back to his office, he lightly touched her arm as if needing her attention for something. She wasn't complaining at all, though. It made her feel safe and appreciated some how.

One morning, Evie arrived with coffee for both herself and Cor. She had noticed on her way to his office that Nyx, whose smile and nod she had become accustomed to seeing, was gone and that different guards were guarding the doors. She could also tell from the start that something about Cor was off. He was mostly quiet and snappy at everyone. She saw one of the new guards practically running down the hall away from his door, and could hear drawers slamming as she got closer. She stopped just in his door way and he gestured for her to enter once he saw her.

"I got you some coffee," she announced, hopeful that the gift might make his mood better. It didn't. He simply took it and made a noise instead of saying thank you. She wasn't sure if she should ask what was wrong so she decided to stay quiet. After thirty minutes of silence, he finally looked at her and sighed.

"I've got a few errands for you to run," he stated dryly, "These folders need to go to Titus, and these go to Clarus." He pushed the folders over to her. She wished he would just say what was bothering him, but she didn't feel like pushing it. She had the next day off, since it was Sunday, and his mood would probably be better by Monday. All Cor did on Sundays now was some personal training and a weekly meeting with Clarus and King Regis.

"Sure," she replied, grabbing the folders. She left his office for the training offices outside, and nearly ran into Gladio as he was coming in.

"Easy, Evie," he chuckled, "where's the fire?"

"Sorry, Gladio. Cor wants these delivered to Titus, and he is in a bad mood today, so I'm trying to just get things done quick."

"Hmmm, I was just on my way to see Cor," he said, rubbing his chin thoughtfully, "perhaps I should put off my visit." He glanced at his watch then back at her. "What are you doing for lunch?"

"Well, I usually get takeout somewhere for Cor and myself," she replied, "but I don't know if he wants anything from me today, considering he basically kicked me out on errands all morning."

"Well, don't take it too personally, he gets into sour moods sometimes and he is not good at talking about things. Why don't you come out with me for lunch and you can bring him something back."

"Sure, sounds fun!" she answered quickly, "It would be nice to talk to someone about things other than work anyway. I don't have any friends outside of this place, yet."

"I'll meet you at the East entrance at twelve, then."

Evie finished her errands and made her way back to Cor's office. He wasn't there, so she decided to busy herself with his inbox. Maybe if he had less to do when he got back, he'd be more thankful than bitter. As she was working, she heard a slight knock. She turned and saw Ignis in the doorway. She beckoned him in with a wave of her hand.

"Hello, Ignis," she greeted, "Cor isn't in at the moment, I'm afraid. Is there anything I can help you with?"

"Morning, Evie. I just needed to give him these documents from the council concerning their last meeting. He knows all about what is in these, but needs to sign them," he sounded and looked tired.

"Sure," she said, "I'll make sure he sees them."

"Thanks, Evie," he sighed, then left.

It was close to noon and she still had not seen Cor again. She left a note about lunch then left to meet Gladio. He was waiting near the gate and they walked to a small ramen place about a block away. After ordering, they sat in a booth near the back.

"So, is the immortal grump feeling better yet?" Gladio asked smiling at her.

"You better hope he doesn't hear you call him that," she laughed, "and I don't know, actually. I haven't seen him since early this morning."

"He's always hated anyone calling him 'immortal,' so I do hope he doesn't hear," he commented looking out the window. "Saw my dad earlier. He said tensions are high right now because of a decision the council made concerning the Kingsglaive. Maybe that's what's bothering him."

"Yeah, maybe. He didn't tell me anything about it," she commented. She hated that Cor would keep something important enough to change his mood a secret from her. She understood that she had only been working for him little over three months, but still she thought he trusted her with some things at work. "Why do people call him the 'immortal,' anyway?" She asked, trying to change the subject.

"Oh, you don't know?" When she shook her head, he continued.

"There are so many stories of the Marshal evading death in impossible circumstances. His fighting skills are legendary. The man was even the youngest Crownsguard at thirteen years old...then personal body guard to King Mors at fifteen. He took on the once thought mythical Gilgamesh and survived. The man was born a fighter."

Evie listened intently, taking in just how prodigious her boss actually was. She already had respect for the man, but it grew even more as Gladio spoke about him.

They spoke more about Cor, but also about each other and Insomnia in general. Evie learned that Gladio had a little sister, named Iris. She also learned that he was not just part of the Crownsguard, but the Shield in training for Prince Noctis, just as his father is for King Regis. Talk about a lot of pressure, she thought. Before leaving, Evie ordered something to bring to Cor. They talked more as they walked back to the Citadel, and Gladio told her all about the training rooms.

"You should come by later," he invited her, "I'll be there most of the afternoon with different guards and Ignis. Noct and Prompto may be by there later as well, depending on the prince's mood," he said the last part with some annoyance.

"I don't know if I'll have time, but if Cor needs his space later, I'll take you up on it!"

"Sounds good," he chuckled.

They said their goodbyes and went in opposite directions. Cor was back in his office when Evie returned, and he was still in a bad mood.

"How was your lunch date?" he asked, obviously aggravated.

"It was fine," she answered, unsure of why he would refer to it as a 'date.' Why was he being so weird. "I brought you something." She laid the take out on his desk. He looked up and muttered a "thanks." The atmosphere of the room felt awkward and she hated it. She hated the silent brooding he was currently doing.

"So...," she started, wanting to feel less awkward, "I noticed the guards at the door were different."

"What?" He looked up, obviously not expecting her to mention something so seemingly random.

"Well, I noticed when I came in this morning that Nyx was gone," she clarified. He eyed her for moment, then looked down, his jaw clenched slightly. What the hell is his problem, she thought.

"Yes, well, I am sure he misses seeing you as well," he stated with a lot of attitude and a hint of accusation. She had had enough. Standing up so fast that her chair fell backward, she glared at him with a fire that rarely found her eyes. His eyes followed her up with his mouth opened slightly, his expression unreadable.

"I don't know what your problem is today, sir, but if it has to do with me then out with it! If not, stop treating me as if it does! I respect and admire you, but right now you are being nothing but an immortal asshole!" she turned around grabbed her bag and left his office, nearly running into Clarus on her way out. The older man watched her storm off down the empty hall, before entering Cor's office.

Cor's face was mixed with anger, surprise, and shame. He cradled his head in his hands and didn't hear or see Clarus at his door. The latter sighed and knocked lightly on the open door to get his attention. Cor looked up and met the older man's questioning gaze.

"Want to tell me what happened?" Clarus asked, already knowing the answer. Cor shook his head slightly.

"I'll work it out later," he replied quietly, sliding some documents his way. Clarus stared at the man, as if trying to read his thoughts.

"Whatever you do, don't run the girl off. We like her around here, and I know you do as well." Clarus took the rest of Cor's paperwork from that morning, and left.

Cor pinched the bridge of his nose. He was tired and angry at himself. He had acted like a child, taking his anger toward the council out on her. He wasn't really angry about her having lunch with Gladio or her friendship with Nyx. Of course she had friends. And yes, sometimes the young men behaved stupidly around her, but she wasn't the type of girl to beg for attention or to take advantage of it. He refused to believe he was jealous at times; perhaps protective. She was his assistant, after all. He had a right to feel some responsibility for her. He sighed, annoyed at where his thoughts had taken him. He got out of his chair before they could take him further. He had to find her and apologize.

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Evie made her way to the training building. She had brought some clothes to run in after work: a pair of dark green, terry cotton shorts, a black tank top, and a pair of tennis shoes. She changed and went to find Gladio. She needed some stress relief. She needed to hit something.

She found him sparring with one of the newer Crownsguard recruits. She watched until they were done and Gladio noticed her. He called her over and took in her appearance.

"You came!" he threw up his hands excitedly. She tried and failed to make herself look happier. His smile faded as she neared. "Whats wrong, Evie? You look as if you might try taking on the whole Nif army."

"I just need to let out some frustration," she answered honestly. He nodded and let it go.

"So, why don't you show me what you've got, then, sweetheart," he smirked and walked to the other end of the room.

They sparred for nearly an hour. She used everything her brother had taught her and that she had learned through experience with the little hunting she had done with him. Gladio seemed pretty impressed at what she did know and taught her some other basics that she quickly picked up on.

"You're pretty damn good at this to be a simple assistant," he commented as she blocked one of his attacks. She countered with a swift right hook, which he easily caught and blocked. She then did something he did not expect. She kicked her feet up to his chest, and pushed herself out of his grip, nearly knocking him down. She flipped backward and landed easily on her feet in a crouched position. Gladio cocked an eyebrow and smiled.

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Cor was walking outside of the Citadel trying to find his assistant. He knew Evie enjoyed running, especially when stressed out. As he made his way towards the track, Thomas, one of the new recruits came past him.

"Afternoon, sir! I didn't know Miss James could fight!" He hopped away excitedly, with the Marshal staring after him. Cor turned and made his way to the training center.

It didn't take him long to find her. She was sparring with Gladio and they had a bit of an audience. Ignis was leaning against a wall watching as Cor approached.

"She's pretty good, Marshal," the advisor commented as he pushed his glasses up on his nose. He heard him, but didn't take his eyes off of her. She was pretty good, alright. She was blocking and attacking with confidence and ease. Gladio was obviously taking it easy on her, as she wasn't properly trained, but she seemed to be learning as she fought, which was incredible to watch. She picked up on his techniques pretty quick and found ways to block and counter around.

Evie had not noticed the Marshal's presence. She was focused on fighting and learning from Gladio. Her mood had improved and the workout felt great. After, flipping away from Gladio's last attack, she saw the big guy pause and look at something to his left. Not something, someone. Cor stepped up near Gladio and said something she couldn't hear. Gladio stepped aside and sat on the bench nearby as Cor took his place. He put his hand out and gestured for her to come at him. She glanced at Gladio, who was drinking some water, and he nodded at her in encouragement. She looked back at Cor and ran at him. He easily blocked her punches, but she blocked his hits as well. She was still angry at him and she showed it. She surprised him by moving under him between his legs, and sweeping her leg hard at his feet, trying to trip him up. He nearly fell, but caught himself. She came up hard with her fist, but he caught it, then grabbed her other arm. He crossed her arms across her chest and pushed her up against the wall, effectively pinning her there with his weight. He wasn't hurting her, but she couldn't move. She struggled until her eyes met his. Something about his gaze paralyzed her. It wasn't fear. It was something much different. It was desire. She looked away, not wanting him to see her blushing or to possibly read her mind through her expression. His eyes, however, never left her.

Why does this feel so good; why do I not want him to let go. She reasoned with herself that it was just the adrenaline from sparring. He's your boss, Evie! Stop it! She pushed her thoughts away and looked back at him. He loosened his grip and helped lower her to the floor. Their audience started to dissipate as if they knew the two needed space. Gladio had also left to speak with Ignis, probably about the Prince never showing up.

"I came to apologize," Cor stated, still standing pretty close to her.

"Oh?" She asked in reply, still breathless. "I figured you came to kick my ass and then tell me to leave for good," she laughed as she spoke.

"I wouldn't hurt you," he said softly before looking away, "and I have no intentions of firing you, if that's what you mean."

"I called you an 'immortal asshole,'" she recalled out loud, biting her lip and gazing up at him as a child in trouble would. He smiled a genuine smile, which was rare, and chuckled quietly.

"You did," he confirmed, "and I deserved it. I'm sorry, Evie. I was angry with...other things concerning the Kingsglaive and I took that anger out on you. Even after you had done so much already for me this morning…the last few months, honestly."

"I forgive you," she started, "but you owe me."

He raised a brow at her.

"Come to lunch with me Monday, and we'll say no more about it," she offered.

"Is that all? I accept," He replied, smiling again. Gods, she could get used to that smile.